Exploring The Relationship Between Smartphone Usage and Phantom Vibration Syndrome Among Nursing College Students

Abstract

Smartphones have become a vital part of our daily routines, serving various functions for stress relief and social interaction. However, excessive use can lead to negative outcomes, such as increased stress and feelings of loneliness. The present study explored the relationship between smartphone usage and phantom vibration syndrome (PVS) among nursing college students. A sample of 75 participants was assessed using standardized measures of daily smartphone use and the frequency of PVS symptoms. Results revealed a statistically significant but weak negative correlation between smartphone usage and phantom vibration syndrome, r = –.180, p < .05. This finding suggests that as smartphone usage increases, the symptoms of PVS tend to slightly decrease. Possible explanations include habituation to frequent notifications, individual coping strategies, and variations in the type and context of smartphone use. These results highlight the complexity of the relationship between technology use and sensory misperceptions, underscoring the need for further research into psychological and behavioral moderators of PVS among high-usage populations such as nursing students.